Definition of Types of Shade

Deep or Full Shade – This is the darkest area of your yard or garden. It receives 0 to 2 hours of direct sunlight a day. For example, this occurs in the deepest parts of woods, on north-facing slopes. Without any sunlight, there is little or no growth on the forest floor, beneath the canopy of the trees. Some moss and ferns may be present. To grow plants in this area, your only option may be to open the area up to some light, by cutting down a tree or two. 

Partial Shade –  These areas receive 2 to 6 hours of direct sunlight. This is ideal for many types of plants. The most ideal conditions are gentle, morning sunlight, and shade during the hot afternoon hours, when sunlight is the most intense.

Light or Dappled Shade –  This type of partial shade occurs where tress with less dense foliage exists. Light filters through the thinner canopy of tree leaves. The swaying of trees in the wind and the movement of the sun, causes the light to shift. Many plants prefer this light level.

Armed with this information, you can now identify the light conditions in your yard, and select plants that will thrive in those conditions. The tags on plants and shrubs at nursery stores will have light level information, to help you in your selection.